Amid escalating Middle Eastern tensions, retaliatory strikes by Israel on Iranian military installations have further destabilized the region. The United States has cautioned the Iranian regime against planning any retaliatory action. The Pentagon mentioned that Saturday's Israeli attacks aimed to mitigate hostility between the two nations.
US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin stated, 'Iran should not make the mistake of responding to Israel's attacks.' President Joe Biden expressed hope that the recent strikes on Iran could bring an end to the prolonged tensions of recent months. On Saturday, he remarked, 'I hope this marks the end.' According to local Iranian media, Iran's parliament convened a session on Sunday morning to discuss Israel's attacks.
Targets Chosen Based on National Interests
Iran played down the significance of this attack, focusing on its responsibilities towards regional peace and security. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu emphasized that Israel selected its targets in Iran based on national interests rather than American directives. His comments were a response to media reports suggesting that Israel avoided targeting Iranian gas and oil facilities due to US pressure.
Destruction of a Missile Production Unit
Experts analyzing satellite imagery confirmed that Israeli air strikes targeted structures used by Iran for mixing solid fuel for ballistic missiles. According to a media report, Israeli air strikes decimated Iran's missile production unit, delivering a significant setback to Tehran.
Iran Admits 'Limited Damage'
Following the attacks, several high-level meetings were convened in Tehran to determine Iran's potential responses. Iran acknowledged 'limited damage' but confirmed that several Revolutionary Guard installations around and within Tehran were hit.
Israel Eases Restrictions
Concurrently, the Israeli military has relaxed some security restrictions for residents of northern Israel. The IDF suggests there is no immediate risk of large-scale attack from Iran or its regional proxies.
Meanwhile, Hezbollah, a Lebanon-based terrorist organization backed by Iran, has advised evacuation of over two dozen Israeli 'settlements' immediately. Israel continues its offensive on northern Gaza, with recent strikes resulting in at least 30 casualties.
